Things Not to Miss in Darjeeling: Visit the Queen of the Hills
Darjeeling is also known as the “Queen of the Hills.” It is an unusually attractive town in the north-eastern part of the Indian state, West Bengal.
The location has gained importance because of its unique view, rich culture, and prime quality tea. There are some unforgettable things to do in Darjeeling if you plan a trip. This will give you the best activities, sights, and places to eat in this beautiful hill station.
Things to Do in Darjeeling
If you have ever visited Darjeeling, then you know that there are a lot of places you can visit and have a great. I personally have been to Darjeeling more than 10 times till now but still discovering new places to visit and new things to do since Darjeeling tourism has improved a lot. So, if you wanna know about a few of these places then keep on scrolling.
1. Take a joy ride on the Toy Train
Travel aboard the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, popularly known as the “Toy Train.” Being one of the oldest narrow-gauge trains in the world, it started in the 1880s and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You can enjoy fantastic flavors on this trip along mountain scenery, tea gardens, and valleys. On your journey, you will be treated to the charming antique charm of this old train combined with steam engines and antique carriages.
| ⁕⁕Bonus – ‣ Book Well in Advance: Trains can get quite packed, especially during peak tourist seasons. ‣ Be on Right Time: Early morning rides ensure clear skies with amazing views. |
| Location | Hill Cart Road, Limbugaon, Darjeeling, West Bengal. |
| Best Time to Visit | October to December is the peak time, when the mists have cleared up, and the weather becomes pleasant. |
| Timings | 7:40 am to last train leaves at 4:30 pm. |
2. Get Up Early for Tiger Hill
Tiger Hill is one of those places that one must and must-see during your visit to Darjeeling. It is especially famous for the scenic view at sunrise over the Himalayas.
The view from atop can even catch a glance of the mighty Kanchenjunga, which happens to be the third highest in the world. Most travelers wake up early to shoot the sunrise, painting the mountains in wonderful shades of orange and pink.
| Bonus – Warm Clothes: It will get quite cold in the morning, so wear proper warm clothes. |
| Location | Tiger Hill, Darjeeling, West Bengal, 734123 |
| Best Time to Visit | October – December and March – April |
| Timings | Open all hours but it is recommended to visit early in the morning before sunrise. |
3. Visit Batasia Loop- The War Memorial
The other prominent thing to do in Darjeeling would be a visit to Batasia Loop. It’s a very unique spiral railway track which provides panoramic views of mountains. The area houses a beautiful garden, a war memorial, and the stark backdrop of the Himalayas. Perfect for a leisurely stroll and photographs.
| ⁕⁕ Bonus – ‣ War Memorial: Dedicated to the Gorkha soldiers who were martyred. ‣ Panoramic Views: The last panorama would be great. |
| Location | Batasia View Point, West Point, Ghoom, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734102 |
| Best Time to Visit | Although you can visit any time of the year, but best time would be during spring. |
| Timings | 5 am to 4:30 pm |
4. Visit the Tea Estates
Darjeeling is tea; no visit will ever be considered complete without visiting the tea estates. Lush tea estates can be explored in guided tours to learn more about the processes of creating tea and even tasting different flavors.
| Bonus – ‣ The most ancient tea estate, Happy Valley Tea Estate: offers guided tours and tastings. ‣ One of the very best scenes and teas: Goomtee Tea Estate ‣ Visit one of the most popular tea estates– Makaibari Tea Estate. |
| Location | There are many different tea estates. |
| Best Time to Visit | The most favorable time to visit is between September to March. |
| Timings | Daylight hours |
5. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is ideal for adventure and mountaineering enthusiasts. This institute was established in 1954 and provides courses in climbing as well as mountaineering. In addition, it has a museum possessing the history of climbing in that region, along with equipment used by great climbers.
| Bonus – ‣ Climbing Courses For people who want to learn the basics of mountaineering. ‣ Museum Tours: Take a history lesson about the Himalayas and the mountaineers who have reached the top of the massive mountains. |
| Location | Jawahar Parvat, Darjeeling – 734101. West Bengal, India. |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring months of April to June |
| Timings | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm |
6. Bask Serenity at Peace Pagoda
Giving some serenity atmosphere for meditation and self-reflection, the beautiful Buddhist stupa, Peace Pagoda, is located atop a hill and offers a breathtaking view of Darjeeling and its surrounding hills.
Beautiful statues of Buddha are found at the entrance, each one of them giving an atmosphere of peacefulness that is one of them giving an atmosphere of peacefulness, far removed from the chaos of the town inside.
| Bonus – ‣ Quiet Hours: Visit it during the early morning or late afternoon for a quiet time. ‣ Respect Local Customs: That includes dressing modestly as well as avoiding any noise on the premises. |
| Location | West Point, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734102 |
| Best Time to Visit | Visit on a sunny day during late afternoon or early morning during spring and autumn. |
| Timings | 4 am to 7 pm |
7. Walk through Mall Road
A tour to Darjeeling is never even half over without a walk up and along Mall Road. It forms the heart of all commercial activities with shops, cafes, and restaurants round it.
Different handicrafts, souvenirs, and tea can be found here as well. There is enough chance for people-watching and enjoying the boisterous atmosphere.
| Bonus – ‣ Momos: Momos are a favorite among the locals as their dumplings. ‣ Darjeeling Tea: Take some tea from there as souvenir. |
| Location | Darjeeling West Bengal, India |
| Best Time to Visit | April to May and October to December |
| Timings | Morning and Afternoon, Daylight hours. |
8. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
Animal lovers would really enjoy the time they take visiting the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. It leads to conservation of the Himalayan species. They have a red panda, snow leopard, and Himalayan black bear. The setup is very beautiful with an educational exposure to people to these unique animals.
| Bonus – ‣ Guided tours help learn more about the animals. ‣ The best time to visit is in the morning or afternoon when the creatures are most active. |
| Location | Darjeeling – Jorethang Road, Near Birch Hill Resort, Jawahar Parbat, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101 |
| Best Time to Visit | March to June and September to January |
| Timings | 8:30 am to 4 pm. |
9. Local Experience at Bhutia Busty Monastery
One of the prominent Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling is Bhutia Busty Monastery or Bhutia Busty Gompa. Beautiful architecture and serene settings make it pretty unique. The visitors can absorb some of the local culture by attending prayer sessions or just basking in the quietness surrounding the place.
| Bonus – ‣ Prayer Flags: Colorful flags waving their way through the breeze along with the beauty of the monastery. ‣ Buddha Statues: The magnificent statues which express the glorious culture of Buddhism. |
| Location | Nr. CR Das Rd. Darjeeling 734101 |
| Best Time to Visit | March to June and September to January. |
| Timings | 4:30 am to 7 pm |
10. Start trekking in Singalila National Park
If you are a nature enthusiastic one, you must not miss the opportunity to visit Singalila National Park. The park features different species of flora and fauna and beautiful trekking tracks. You will come across regions comprising high altitude pastures as well as beautiful rhododendron forests.
| Bonus – ‣ Hired Guide: To always be with a local guide, especially when trekking. ‣ One should pack essentials such as water and snacks or even a minor first-aid kit. |
| Location | P.O. Bansbotay, Rimbick, West Bengal 734201 |
| Best Time to Visit | Visit in winter to spend some cozy time in the snowy season. |
| Timings | 9 am to 9 pm |
11. Browse for Local Handicrafts
Darjeeling can be seen perhaps for the special handicrafts one gets. There are the most beautiful ones, from hand-woven shawls to wooden carvings, traditional jewelry, and many more. You can have all sorts of products at local markets, making it an excellent place for souvenirs or gifts.
| Bonus – ‣ Lal Chowk: It is a very busy market where you get everything from clothing to various handicrafts. ‣ Chowrasta: A great shopping and leisure place, overlooked by the pleasing scenery of mountains. |
| Location | Mall Road, Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101 |
| Best Time to Visit | Evenings in the spring and autumn seasons. |
| Timings | 9 am to 8 pm |
12. Recreation at the Observatory Hill
It is a quiet place that offers the best views of the Kanchenjunga range, and it is a place of significance and great religious importance, as there exists a temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Bhavatis. This place is ideal for an afternoon that would be quiet and exhibit beauty.
| Bonus – ‣ Photograph the scenery in which you will find. ‣ Picnic somewhere and enjoy your meal out in the open. |
| Location | Naya Basti, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101 |
| Best Time to Visit | March to September |
| Timings | 7 am to 7 pm |
13. Botanical Gardens
The Darjeeling Himalayan Botanical Garden is famously referred to as the Botanical Gardens. It is a nice walking space between beautiful flora and fauna. One can view varied species of plants which are thriving well in the Himalayan atmosphere in this garden, so it’s a destination for all who love nature.
| Bonus – ‣ Rare Plants: Can be seen growing quite well in the Himalayan climate. ‣ Peaceful Environment: The perfect destination to spend some time and immerse in nature. |
| Location | Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling |
| Best Time to Visit | Arrival of spring season |
| Timings | 6 am to 5 pm daily |
14. Tenzing Rock
Named after the legendary mountaineer, Tenzing Norgay, Tenzing Rock is one of the most sought-after climbing and rappelling destinations. This is an excellent place wherein one can experience the thrill of climbing from a beginner to an expert climber in the most wonderful backdrop.
| Bonus – Guided Sessions: There will be professionals for guidance. Scenic Views: Enjoy a great landscape from atop. |
| Location | Lebong Cart Road, Darjeeling |
| Best Time to Visit | Before and after monsoon. |
| Timings | Daily from sunrise to sunset. |
Top Places to Eat in Darjeeling
No trip to Darjeeling is complete unless you sample its culinary delights. Here are some of the top places that you mustn’t miss while visiting Darjeeling.
1. Keventers
A Century-old culinary legacy, Keventer’s has been a popular breakfast spot ever since it was established back in 110 years. Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast, tea or snacks with a mesmerizing view of the Kanchenjunga Mountains.
| Location | Nehru Rd. Clubdside, Shop No. 1, Darjeeling 734101 |
| What to Eat | English Breakfast, Darjeeling tea, Pork Sausages & Salami, Hot chocolate |
| Timings | 8 am – 6:30 pm |
2. Kunga Restaurant
Kunga Restaurant is famous for authentic Tibetan food. Momos and thukpa are served and the setting is very cozy. The warmth in this restaurant encourages ample rest after a day of looking around Darjeeling.
| Location | 51 Gandhi Road, Darjeeling, 734101, just below Dekeling Hotel |
| What to Eat | Tibetan Momo, Chicken Thukpa,Chicken fried rice, Chilly Chicken |
| Timings | 8 am to 9 pm |
3. Glenary’s
Many locals and tourists flock to the popular favorite bakery restaurant of Glenary’s. It dishes out pastries and continental food. Do indulge in a hearty breakfast or afternoon tea, relishing the fabulous vistas.
| Location | Nehru Road Darjeeling 734101 |
| What to Eat | Pastries, pies, pizzas, sandwiches and burgers. |
| Timings | 6:30 am to 9 pm |
4. Dekevas Restaurant
Located just below the Dekeling Hotel in the heart of Darjeeling, the Dekeling Restaurant specializes in traditional Tibetan cuisine. The restaurant is decorated with traditional Tibetan decor and architecture. It is very popular among tourists and travelers.
| Location | 51, Gandhi Rd, Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling, 734101 |
| What to Eat | Cheesecake, Dragon chicken bao, pork bibimbap |
| Timings | 9 am to 9:30 pm |
5. Sonam’s Kitchen
Sonam’s Kitchen is famous for delicious but very cheap food. It serves Indian and Tibetan food. Hospitality here is also equally warm and homely, so it has become a favorite destination for many travelers.
| Location | Dr. Zakir Hussain Road near the TV Tower |
| What to Eat | Hash brown and cheese omlette, pancake with banana, nuts and honey. Porridge. |
| Timings | 8 am to 2:30 pm for breakfast and brunch, 6 pm to 8:30 pm for dinner. |
6. Tom & Jerry Restaurant
This funny-looking restaurant has become popular for friendly service and great food. Their menu ranges from Chinese to Indian cuisine. Don’t forget to try their special fried rice!
| Location | Dr. Zakir Hussain Road Near Sp Bangalow, Darjeeling 734101 |
| What to Eat | Hot chocolate, Chicken Ramen, Pancakes with banana and honey, chicken sandwich. |
| Timings | 8 am to 8 pm |
7. The Park Restaurant
It is in the heart of Darjeeling. The Park Restaurant has a beautiful view of romance with a rich variety of dishes of the locals. It’s a great location to taste authentic Nepali food.
| Location | 41, Laden-L Road, Darjeeling, India |
| What to Eat | Tom yum soup, flat rice noodles, red curry, Som Thum. |
| Timings | 10 am to 9 pm |
Top Places for Adventure Sports in Darjeeling
Darjeeling is a versatile place to visit, for all sorts of people, whether you are a laid-back traveler or an adrenaline junkie, Darjeeling has it all.
1. Whitewater Rafting
Whitewater rafting on the Teesta River is one of the most popular adventure sports in Darjeeling. The two rivers, Teesta and Rangeet, flow down the Himalayan mountains, creating an amazing whitewater rafting experience.
These waters are great for both beginners and season whitewater rafters. So, if you are an adrenaline junkie then this is something that you need to try out.
| Best Time | December to June (avoid the monsoon months July – September) |
| Price | Rs.800 – 1200 per person |
2. Paragliding
Who doesn’t love to be on top of the world? Well, if you get the chance are you gonna take it? I think you should. Paragliding over the Himalayan plains is going to give you that feeling.
At first it may seem a lot scary if it’s your fist time, but once you get over those initial fears, it is gonna be a once in a lifetime experience. And don’t you worry about things going wrong, there will be an instructor guiding the whole flight process.
| Best Time | October to April, try to avoid January to February to excessive chill. |
| Price | In Darjeeling – Rs 3500 including pickup and drop plus videography. In Kalimpong – 12-15 mins trip – Rs. 3000, videography Rs.500 separate. A 20-25 mins trip – Rs. 5500 including videography. |
3. Trekking
Trekking is one of the most popular adventure sports in Darjeeling, whether you trek to Sandakphu, phalut or Singalila, it is an amazing adventure.
All these trek routes are beautiful with plain lands, forests and full of flora like magnolias and rhododendrons along the way. If you wanna know more about these trekking routes, then check out trekking in Darjeeling.
| Best Time | Ideal time between April to May, again from October to November. Avoid the monsoon months from June to September. |
| Price | There are many different treks in Darjeeling, so the costs are different. Check out Trekking in Darjeeling to know more in detail. |
4. Kayaking
Away from the fast-flowing waters and adrenaline high if you wanna go easy one sunny day, then going kayaking is the best thing you can do.
The term “going with the flow” perfectly explains kayaking. And the gentle downstream of the Singla river is the perfect spot for spending a pleasant day kayaking.
| Best Time | December to June (avoid the monsoon months July – September) |
| Price | Contact Darjeeling tourism for details |
5. Camping
Who doesn’t want to stay amidst nature for a few days, leaving behind the concrete jungle? For them, camping is the perfect getaway from the real world.
There are beautiful places in Darjeeling to set up camp. A few of these camping spots are Gorkey, Gairibas, Kalipokhri, Tonglu, Srikhola, and Molley.
| Best Time | March to early June again from October to November, avoid monsoon and winter season. |
| Price | Contact local operators |
Wrapping Up!
With experiences hidden in its hills, Darjeeling waits to be explored. The sights at Tiger Hill are made of the stuff of which unforgettable things are made in Darjeeling; also included in it is the most peaceful atmosphere at the Peace Pagoda.
Besides these, mouth-watering food and the rich culture promise to capture one’s heart and tie it to this hill station. Plan your travel, and let’s witness the beauty of this beautiful hill queen.
Let us create some long-lasting memories here on this site. Be it relishing tea or taking a ride through Toy Train, relishing local delicacies-in all, Darjeeling is an adventure like no other.
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